Contemporary Issues in Interpersonal Communication

Contemporary Issues in Interpersonal Communication introduces the foundational ideas and concepts of interpersonal communication and applies them to issues and events relevant to today's college student population. The text does not simply reiterate the standard set of interpersonal communication's core ideas and theories, nor does it exclude them. Rather, authors Orbe and Bruess offer an integrated approach--both traditional and contemporary--introducing the concepts, models, and theories of the field in a way that will engage and challenge today's most culturally sensitive, technologically savvy, and forward-thinking interpersonal communication students.

The authors feature a highly diverse mix of cultural groups, fresh examples, and cutting-edge research. Written in clear, student-friendly language, the text tcnks specific communication practices regarding issues of culture, power, and technology in all contexts of interpersonal communication. The knowledge and awareness of how culture, power, and technology influence all aspects of our interpersonal interactions is essential for students seeking competence and effectiveness as interpersonal communicators.

This text is organized in three sections: Introduction to Interpersonal Communication, Interpersonal Messages, and Communication Contexts. It offers multiple pedagogical features designed to engage students in fun, meaningful, and relevant ways, eliminating the need for supplemental materials. Each chapter provides Contemporary Issues (case studies describing real-life news stories), Myths About Interpersonal Communication, Practical Research Opportunities, Self-Reflection Exercises, Applied Concept Features, and Skill Builders. In addition, each chapter also features Chapter Activities designed for in-class, out-of-class, community-based, and web-based learning as well as Suggested Contemporary Readings intended to promote opportunities for learning beyond what is covered in the text. Chapter Summaries and Key Terms are also provided.

A comprehensive Instructor's Manual/Testing Program is available electronically, which includes an in-depth explanation of how to bring service learning into the interpersonal communication classroom, including specific service-learning project assignments. There is also a dedicated Website. In addition, an Interactive Student Study Guide is available through the Website.

Mark P. Orbe is at Western Michigan University. Carol J. Bruess is at the University of St. Thomas.